NATCHEZ &045;&045; Through song, salutes, marches, pledges and proclamations, people throughout the Miss-Lou gathered Monday to honor the men and women of the armed forces who have given their lives for their country.

The soldiers who have died were the &uot;embodiment of what we are all about,&uot; said Monday’s guest speaker John Baffa, deputy assistant secretary of the Department of Veteran Affairs Police Service.

The memorial began Monday morning, through the heavy morning downpour, as residents marched across the Mississippi River Bridge from Vidalia.

Vidalia mayor Hyram Copeland said many of the marchers told him, &uot;regardless of how hard it rains, it will not dampen our spirit.&uot;

After regrouping in Natchez, they headed to the Natchez National Cemetery Monday morning.

&uot;It’s a Vidalia tradition to march across the bridge every year,&uot; said Louis Whitley of the Tri-Stone Lodge 137 who made the march this year.

&uot;We are trying to show the community we are behind them,&uot; said lodge member Kim Singleton.

Many have made the march and joined in the Memorial Day celebration for years.

&uot;I realize how a lot of us didn’t realize what we were coming out here for,&uot; said Bishop James Calhoun, master of ceremonies.

WWII veteran and Natchez native Spencer Sylvester said &uot;as long as I’m able to walk and move about, I’m coming out&uot; for Memorial Day. &uot;One day they’ll be honoring me.&uot;

In an afternoon ceremony, the City of Natchez, Town of Vidalia and Adams County joined together to proclaim May 31 a day of peace, tranquility, prayer and memorial.

Mayor Copeland said they remember soldiers who &uot;made the ultimate sacrifice,&uot; and Adams County Supervisors President Daryl Grennell said they &uot;have answered the call to defend the liberties of this country.&uot;

Through silent appreciation and the laying of wreaths, veterans and auxiliary groups showed their gratitude for that sacrifice. The rifle salute and playing of Taps ended the ceremony but not the memorials of the day as many in the audience visited gravesites throughout the cemetery Monday afternoon.